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Gourcuff back in France fold

Yoann Gourcuff has been called up to the France squad for the friendly match against Italy next week.

The Lyon midfielder recently returned for his club after struggling with injury in the early part of the campaign and has been rewarded with a recall to Didier Deschamp's side for the game in Parma.

Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema misses out due to injury, as does Newcastle midfielder Hate Ben Arfa, who is yet to force his way back into Didier Deschamps' plans following disciplinary problems at Euro 2012.

Veteran midfielder Steed Malbranque also misses out on a place, despite recent reports suggesting he could earn a surprise call-up to the squad.